Container Shipping

What Is Container Shipping?

Container shipping (also called sea freight shipping) refers to the transportation of goods via large, standardized containers by sea. It’s a popular and cost-effective solution for moving goods internationally.

Top Container Shipping Companies in the US

Looking for a container shipping quote? It all starts with choosing a reliable mover. Here are some of the best container shipping moving companies in the US:

1. Laser Moving

Sirelo Top Mover

9.6

435

Laser Moving

Naperville

40 ratings as Professional

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40 ratings as "Professional"

Reliable, high-rated, and known for secure shipping cargo by sea.

2. US International Movers

8.9

61

US International Movers

Surfside

7 ratings as Good Communication

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7 ratings as "Good Communication"

Experts in international container shipping and partial load options.

3. SDC International Shipping

9.1

163

SDC International Shipping

Sherman Oaks

5 ratings as Good Communication

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5 ratings as "Good Communication"

Great for full-service international moves.

4. Viking International Moving

8.0

60

Viking International Moving

New York

8 ratings as Professional

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8 ratings as "Professional"

Excellent for custom relocations and sea freight shipping.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Container Overseas?

International container shipping costs vary based on several factors:

• Route and Distance
• Container Size (20 ft vs. 40 ft)
• Load Type: FCL (Full Container Load) vs. LCL (Less than Container Load)
• Additional Services: Packing, insurance, port handling, customs

* These are indicative port‑to‑port rates; door‑to‑door or full service moves will cost more.

Container Sizes, Dimensions & Weights

Choosing the right container size is crucial for ensuring the efficient and secure transportation of your belongings.

20-Foot Container

• Dimensions: 20′ x 8′ x 8.5′
• Capacity: ~1,172 ft³
• Weight: ~2,300 kg (empty)

40-Foot Container

• Dimensions: 40′ x 8′ x 8.5′
• Capacity: ~2,390 ft³
• Ideal for large homes or full business moves

FCL vs. LCL: What’s Right for You?

LCL shipping prices are lower if you don’t need a full container. Read more about LCL shipping in our guide.

How to Move a Cargo Container: Step‑by‑Step

1. Choose between FCL or LCL
2. Request container shipping quotes from multiple movers
3. Prepare documents and inventory
4. Pack items securely
5. Arrange inland transport
6. Monitor delivery and customs clearance

Need help calculating your volume? Try our container shipping volume calculator to estimate your volume for your international shipping container quote.

Popular Container Shipping Destinations

• USA → Germany: $4,500 – $10,000 (20 ft)
• USA → Australia: $8,000 – $26,000 (40 ft)
• USA → UK: $3,000 – $7,500 (20 ft)
• USA → New Zealand: $18,000 – $23,500+ (full container)

Shipping a Car Overseas

Need to include a vehicle in your shipment? Here’s a quick guide on how to ship your car:

1. Choose sea freight shipping or RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off)
2. Get a sea freight quote
3. Prepare the car for transport (clean, fluids drained, no personal items)

Plan Your Move!

Remember to plan, compare quotes, and communicate effectively with the shipping company to make your international move a hassle-free process. If you need more information, check out our FAQs and linked aticles.